Letter to the Next Generation by Azurin Mazlan
Hey young baller,
I know how tough it can get. The long seasons, the relentless training, the weight of expectations—it can all feel overwhelming. Some days, you’ll question if it’s worth it, if you’re good enough, if you have what it takes. I’ve been there, too. I’ve felt the exhaustion, the frustration, and the doubt. But let me tell you something: You are good enough. You always have been. Every setback, every tough match, every moment of struggle is shaping you into the player—and the person—you’re meant to be.
I didn’t get to where I am because the road was smooth. It wasn’t. There were moments I felt like giving up, especially as a female goalkeeper in a sport where I constantly had to prove myself. But I pushed through. I kept showing up. Because growth isn’t always obvious. Sometimes, it’s in the tiniest improvements, the resilience you build, the passion that refuses to fade even when everything feels stacked against you.
So take a break if you need to. Breathe. Reset. But don’t quit. Football is more than just a game—it’s a teacher, a test, a journey. It will challenge you, break you down, and then build you back up even stronger. Keep going. Keep believing. I believe in you. And remember: struggling doesn’t mean failing—it means you’re still in the fight. “The road to success is never straight. It’s filled with bumps, detours, and challenges. But every step, no matter how hard, brings you closer to who you’re meant to be.”
With love and strength,
Azurin Mazlan
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